# Importing Files

> How to import 3D/CAD files in Asset Transformer Studio

Importing a [3D/CAD](/asset-transformer-studio/2026.5.0/manual/data-preparation-fundamentals/about-3d-models-types.md) file is generally the very first action to start working with Asset Transformer Studio, as importing, preparing and exporting a 3D model is the most common use case!

When importing, the integrity of all the information contained in the original 3D/CAD file is preserved: product structure (hierarchy), original CAD surfaces (BRep/Nurbs), materials assignment and appearance, PMI, animations and all kinds of metadata.

Find [here](/asset-transformer-studio/2026.5.0/manual/supported-file-formats.md#import) all the formats supported at import in Asset Transformer Studio.

## Defining the Import mode

The Import mode defines how a model is imported in Asset Transformer Studio, and 2 modes are available: **Raw import** and **Guided import**. More information in the dedicated page [here](/asset-transformer-studio/2026.5.0/manual/working-with-asset-transformer-studio/importing-files/import-mode.md).

## Importing a 3D model

Once the Import mode is defined, import a 3D model in Asset Transformer Studio using all the available possibilities:

* By dragging and dropping the file in the interface.
* From the `Raw import` / `Guided import` icons in the [Main Toolbar](/asset-transformer-studio/2026.5.0/manual/user-interface/toolbars/main-toolbar.md).
* By doing [File](/asset-transformer-studio/2026.5.0/manual/user-interface/menu-bar/file-menu.md) menu > `Raw import` or `Guided import`.

## Import and scripting

The Python interface cannot be used for **batch/automation data preparation scripts**: [Asset Transformer SDK](https://www.pixyz-software.com/documentations/sdk/latest/) is the solution for this, and the supporting tool for developing scripts is the [Asset Transformer SDK UI](https://www.pixyz-software.com/documentations/sdk/latest/manual/pixyzui/pixyzui.html).

## Related Topics

* [Supported File Formats](/asset-transformer-studio/2026.5.0/manual/supported-file-formats.md)
* [Importing Alias Files](/asset-transformer-studio/2026.5.0/manual/working-with-asset-transformer-studio/importing-files/importing-alias-files.md)
* [Importing VRED Files](/asset-transformer-studio/2026.5.0/manual/working-with-asset-transformer-studio/importing-files/importing-vred-files.md)
* [Importing RVM Files](/asset-transformer-studio/2026.5.0/manual/working-with-asset-transformer-studio/importing-files/importing-rvm-files.md)
* [Importing ReCap Files](/asset-transformer-studio/2026.5.0/manual/working-with-asset-transformer-studio/importing-files/importing-recap-files.md)